Going to grad school costs you anywhere from two years to six years, depending on your program. If we assume that you will make a minimum of $50K per annum, plus 35% fringe and 5%-10% seniority advantage per year, those years in school begin to get very expensive quickly. But there is more to graduate education than cash and that is what staying motivated in grad school is all about. Developing the right attitude to stay motivated to accomplish a lot during your time as a grad student besides just coursework is very important to not only addressing the pecuniary gaps that emerge with time away at school but create a cache of non-pecuniary benefits that put head and shoulders above your competition. In this lively and humorous webinar, we will discuss some specific steps to ensure you are motivated and stay motivated throughout your grad school experience. We will discuss the importance of developing a philosophy of life to guide your graduate studies, the criticality of fostering a passion for pursuing what you are passionate about and to use results as the driving forces for your motivation.

Many grad students are not aware that they are eligible for SWE scholarships, but you are! Speaking from experience, it is a great way to help pay for attending conferences, cover living expenses, buy books and school supplies, etc. But hurry, the application is due February 15th!

Region Conferences season has begun! Many conferences have poster competitions, sessions, and other events for graduate students. Check out the blog article for more details and make sure to submit your poster abstract for the competition! It’s a great way to get practice explaining your research! https://swegrad.wordpress.com/2016/01/18/upcoming-regional-conferences/

Do you know someone (or yourself) or a Grad Group who deserves recognition? Submit their name here: http://goo.gl/51Oh1H

(5) Blog Basics: Calendar page

Ever wonder what’s coming up in the Grad Community? Check out our Calendar page of the Blog and even add the calendar to your personal calendar to keep track of upcoming events. Right now, it’s all about Region Conferences! https://swegrad.wordpress.com/calendar/

As added incentive, if you are chosen for an individual award you receive complimentary WE16 conference registration, a travel stipend, AND an awards banquet ticket (for Outstanding Collegiate Member this is for Celebrate SWE!)!